The discovery drew the attention of PETA's national president, Ingrid E. Newkirk, who remarked, "GCB was a reeking hellhole for the rats, snakes, and other animals who
were left to starve, drown, and die among the rotting corpses of other
animals. The individuals
responsible for this staggering cruelty must be prosecuted and banned
from laying their hands on another animal."

A weak and lethargic rat hangs on.

According to her organization, PETA first encountered Behm in the mid-'80s, when as a college
student he videotaped himself throwing rats, mice and rabbits into a
bathtub with ferrets that attacked and killed them. Behm, who could not be prosecuted because the statute of limitations had expired by the time law enforcement received the video, is said by PETA to have admitted
conducting unapproved "experiments" in part for his own
"enjoyment."

This is so fucked up. Why has this monster not been arrested? Furthermore, they should assess a huge fine and implement an injunction against owning, selling and otherwise dealing with animals for the rest of his life.

This is very sad. I don't understand people who buy from pet stores though. I would only get a pet through a shelter or rescue personally. Good call on putting them to sleep though, at least they don't have to suffer anymore and hopefully the owners of this place get charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty.